Unleashing the Power of Wind: Using Wind Turbines to Energize Greenhouses for Zero Emission Cultivation

eocycle wind turbine with greenhouse

Exploring the synergy between wind energy and greenhouses presents a sustainable pathway for agricultural practices. This blog delves into how wind turbines, as a cornerstone of modern agritech, offer commercial greenhouse growers the opportunity to harness wind power for zero-emission cultivation. Highlighting the economic and environmental advantages, we’ll uncover the potential of wind turbine greenhouse integration, showcasing how this innovative approach not only mitigates energy costs but also propels greenhouses towards a more sustainable, off-grid operation. Through the lens of wind energy greenhouse solutions, such as the Eocycle EOX S-16 model, we illuminate the journey towards a cleaner, more resilient agricultural future.

But first, let’s review how wind turbines work and some product specifications. 

How do wind turbines generate electricity?

The movement of the wind over the turbine blades generates lift similar to that of an airplane wing, initiating the rotation of the rotor. Through the utilization of a direct drive mechanism, the turning blades enable the production of power from the generator. The generated electricity is then directed to a transformer, where it undergoes conversion to the appropriate voltage. Finally, the transformed electricity is transmitted onward towards whatever facility, building or operation needs powering.

How big is a wind turbine?

When you think of wind turbines you might think of gargantuan installations that tower over hilltops and can be seen from miles away. These types of turbines help power entire municipalities and are often seen in clusters dotting windy landscapes. Eocycle, the wind turbine company that Ceres has partnered with, offers turbine models that are smaller and more accessible to commercial farmers or individual institutions. For instance, their smallest model (the EOX S-16) tops out at 80 feet (24 meters), which is the height of a fully grown pine tree. A wind turbine of this size only takes up about 10 feet of ground space so it doesn’t encroach much on farmable land. 

Another benefit of the EOX S-16 wind turbine is that it doesn’t have a gearbox which means the turbine itself functions rather simply and reliably, greatly minimizing the need for ongoing maintenance for its 30-year lifespan. 

How much energy does a wind turbine produce?

The energy output of a wind turbine depends on the size of the turbine and wind speed through the rotor. If you take an average wind speed of 16mph (7.5 m/s, which is a moderate breeze), Eocycle’s EOX S-16 model can generate 130,000kWh per year (130 MWH). That’s enough electricity to run two 3,000 sq ft Ceres greenhouses. 

calculating wind speed chart
Wind speed to gross output chart for the EOX S-16 model 

Combine wind turbine renewable energy with energy-efficient greenhouse design, and you can save exponentially on energy costs. A modern wind turbine generates electricity 75-80% of the time but any gap in electrical needs can be complemented with solar energy from PV panels to achieve 100% renewable power. In addition, Eocycle’s wind turbines come equipped with the capability to easily integrate with energy storage technologies.

Ceres’ commercial greenhouses have the capability to run entirely on electricity which means that it’s possible for our growers to rely solely on wind and solar to operate their greenhouses.

How much does a wind turbine cost?

While not inexpensive, wind turbines qualify for renewable energy incentives from both federal and some state governments (not all states have incentives). Through the federal investment tax credit (ITC), you can benefit from a tax credit equivalent to 30% of the total project cost. Moreover, wind turbines are eligible for a USDA REAP Grant, which can cover up to 50% of the project cost. By leveraging these two incentives, you can cover at least 80% of your project expenses.

incentive infographic for wind energy

Where does a wind turbine make the most sense?

Not all locations are eligible for producing wind energy. Before investing in a wind energy system, it is essential to evaluate or assess the wind resource specific to your location or site. 

In order for an Eocycle wind turbine to work for your business, your site must have an average wind speed of 10mph (4.4m/s) or higher for a wind turbine height of 80 feet. To see if your site meets this requirement, you can visit the Global Wind Atlas site to determine your “mean wind speed” (left box) by entering the coordinates of the proposed wind turbine location into the site’s search bar (you can easily find your exact coordinates via Google maps). Once you enter your coordinates into the site, you will want your wind speed meter to be above 4m/s when you select the 10-meter height measurement, and above 5m/s when you select the 50-meter height measurement.

Wind Turbine Case Study: Minnick Farm, Minnesota 

In Cosmos, Minnesota, the Minnick Farm, entrenched in grain production since 1867, has diversified by incorporating wind energy, leveraging its land for both agriculture and renewable energy. Amidst increasing energy demands for crop drying, Brad Minnick opted for his own personal wind turbine, attracted by its cost benefits and stability. This move was further bolstered by Minnesota’s tax incentives, including property and sales tax exemptions, alongside a 26% federal investment tax credit and USDA subsidies. This culminated in the installation of a EOS S-16 (25 kW) Eocycle wind turbine, enhancing the farm’s energy efficiency and contributing over 86,500 kWh of clean energy annually.

wind turbine energy
Photo of Minnick Farm by Eocycle 

Wind is abundant, and wind turbines are among the most economically viable on-site renewable energy systems. Wind serves as a plentiful, clean, quiet, and renewable source of energy, and depending on the wind resources available, a wind energy system can result in a significant reduction or even complete elimination of your electricity bill. The payback period and return on investment for wind systems typically surpass those of various other renewable options, such as solar. Also, wind power is entirely free from carbon emissions.

Ceres is proud to partner with Eocycle to supply commercial greenhouse farmers with a zero-emission solution to year-round food production. Wind energy greenhouses provide a viable solution that also lessens or eliminates environmental impact. If you are interested in a wind turbine greenhouse for your farm, contact us today!

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